RESIDENTS living in Upton-upon-Severn are being warned to be on their guard after reports of rogue traders operating in the area.
The bogus callers have been turning up at homes to sell goods and services but, police say, ‘have no regard for the law’.
They generally target vulnerable people.
Police issue advice
Officers say the best advice is not to deal with anyone who visits uninvited.
“You should not feel bullied, threatened, or pressurised into buying anything or having any work carried out.
“Rogue traders and doorstep callers may do unnecessary work, or to a poor standard, or the price may rapidly increase.”
People should be suspicious if they are told:
- The work is urgent, and they need to act quickly
- There are broken roof tiles, or a leaking gutter, etc.
Police have urged residents to ‘take their time to get informed’ and ‘seek the opinion of a reputable trader before making any decisions’.
Anyone who feels they have fallen victim to rogue traders should report the suspicious callers to Trading Standards (the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline number is 0808 223 1133).
Or call the police on 101 or 999 in the event of an emergency and while a rogue trader is there.
